2016 Summer Olympics

The 2016 Summer Olympics was held in Rio de Janeiro. It was the first time a South American country hosted the Games.9601280

The 2016 Summer Olympics was held in Rio de Janeiro. It was the first time a South American country hosted the Games.

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Pelé

Pelé

Edson Arantes do Nascimento aka Pelé is inarguably the best soccer player of all time. We admire the now retired sportsman for his competitive edge and for scoring 1,281 goals in 1,363 games.9601280

Edson Arantes do Nascimento aka Pelé is inarguably the best soccer player of all time. We admire the now retired sportsman for his competitive edge and for scoring 1,281 goals in 1,363 games.

Getty Images

Amazon's Wildlife

Amazon's Wildlife

The macaw (pictured), jaguar, anaconda, howler monkey, black caiman, whiteknee tarantula and pink dolphin are a few reasons why exploring Amazonian rainforests can be a great outdoor experience. We love a good trek through the jungle to see animals in their natural habitat.9601280

The macaw (pictured), jaguar, anaconda, howler monkey, black caiman, whiteknee tarantula and pink dolphin are a few reasons why exploring Amazonian rainforests can be a great outdoor experience. We love a good trek through the jungle to see animals in their natural habitat.

Thinkstock

Beaches

Beaches

You can’t talk about Brazil without mentioning its popular beach culture and beautiful beaches, including Copacabana, Ipanema, Fernando de Noronha, Caraiva, Bonete, Leblon and Logoinha do Leste.9601280

You can’t talk about Brazil without mentioning its popular beach culture and beautiful beaches, including Copacabana, Ipanema, Fernando de Noronha, Caraiva, Bonete, Leblon and Logoinha do Leste.

Thinkstock

Volleyball

Volleyball

Volleyball -- including beach volleyball -- is Brazil’s second most popular sport, and this South American country is the most successful country to compete. The Brazil men’s national volleyball team won both the Volleyball World Cup and Volleyball World Championship. And both the men’s and women’s national teams are ranked number 1 in the FIVB (Fédération Internationale de Volleyball) World Rankings.9601280

Volleyball -- including beach volleyball -- is Brazil’s second most popular sport, and this South American country is the most successful country to compete. The Brazil men’s national volleyball team won both the Volleyball World Cup and Volleyball World Championship. And both the men’s and women’s national teams are ranked number 1 in the FIVB (Fédération Internationale de Volleyball) World Rankings.

Getty Images

Samba & Carnival

Samba & Carnival

We love big dance parties, and there’s no reason why we wouldn’t love shaking our tail feathers with the rest of the samba dancers during Carnival. The huge festival in Rio de Janeiro draws more than 4 million people each year.9601280

We love big dance parties, and there’s no reason why we wouldn’t love shaking our tail feathers with the rest of the samba dancers during Carnival. The huge festival in Rio de Janeiro draws more than 4 million people each year.

sfmission.com, flickr

Capoeira

Capoeira

Experience Capoeira -- a martial art where power, speed and leg sweeps are combined with dance and music. These unique Brazilian moves were created by descendants of African slaves and influenced by native Brazilians during the 16th century.9601280

Experience Capoeira -- a martial art where power, speed and leg sweeps are combined with dance and music. These unique Brazilian moves were created by descendants of African slaves and influenced by native Brazilians during the 16th century.

Getty Images

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls

Travel to the border -- between Brazil and Argentina -- to see one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world, Iguazu Falls.9601280

Travel to the border -- between Brazil and Argentina -- to see one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world, Iguazu Falls.

Thinkstock

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro

We love Rio de Janeiro because it’s the host city for the 2014 Soccer World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympic Games. Not to mention, its fun tourist attractions, including Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Carnival, Tijuca National Park and Hippie Fair.9601280

We love Rio de Janeiro because it’s the host city for the 2014 Soccer World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympic Games. Not to mention, its fun tourist attractions, including Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, Carnival, Tijuca National Park and Hippie Fair.

Getty Images

Acai Berries

Acai Berries

We love the fruits native to Brazil, including acai berries (pictured), mangoes, papayas, guavas, passion fruit and hog plums. Over the last decade, acai has been increasingly popular and used in juice, smoothies, food, cosmetics and dietary supplements.9601280

We love the fruits native to Brazil, including acai berries (pictured), mangoes, papayas, guavas, passion fruit and hog plums. Over the last decade, acai has been increasingly popular and used in juice, smoothies, food, cosmetics and dietary supplements.

Breno Peck, flickr

Soccer

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Brazil. Seleção Brasileira, the Brazilian national soccer team, has won the FIFA World Cup a record 5 times. With great players like Pelé, Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos and Garrincha, there’s no mystery why the 2014 World Cup Championship will be held in Rio de Janeiro. Other popular sports in Brazil include footvolley, basketball, auto racing and futsul.9601280

Soccer is the most popular sport in Brazil. Seleção Brasileira, the Brazilian national soccer team, has won the FIFA World Cup a record 5 times. With great players like Pelé, Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos and Garrincha, there’s no mystery why the 2014 World Cup Championship will be held in Rio de Janeiro. Other popular sports in Brazil include footvolley, basketball, auto racing and futsul.

Getty Images

Feijoada

Feijoada

Can you say yummy? Feijoada -- a stew made with beans, beef and pork -- is Brazil’s national dish. If you’re a real meat eater, then we suggest you try eating at a churrascaria, where the waiters move around the restaurant with skewers, slicing meat onto your plate. We love it!9601280

Can you say yummy? Feijoada -- a stew made with beans, beef and pork -- is Brazil’s national dish. If you’re a real meat eater, then we suggest you try eating at a churrascaria, where the waiters move around the restaurant with skewers, slicing meat onto your plate. We love it!

Carla Arena, flickr

São Paulo

São Paulo

São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and the 6th largest city in the world with more than 10 million residents. We marvel at the city’s awe-inspiring architecture and delicious gastronomic cuisine. Fortaleza, Salvador and Brazil’s capital, Brasilia, are a few other places we love.9601280

São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and the 6th largest city in the world with more than 10 million residents. We marvel at the city’s awe-inspiring architecture and delicious gastronomic cuisine. Fortaleza, Salvador and Brazil’s capital, Brasilia, are a few other places we love.

Getty Images

Brigadeiros

Brigadeiros

We love the sweet taste of brigadeiros -- a candy made out of sweetened condensed milk, butter and cocoa powder. After it’s baked, the delicious mixture is usually rolled into balls or used as a topping or filling for cakes and other pastries. Not surprisingly, brigadeiros are a popular treat served at children’s birthday parties.9601280

We love the sweet taste of brigadeiros -- a candy made out of sweetened condensed milk, butter and cocoa powder. After it’s baked, the delicious mixture is usually rolled into balls or used as a topping or filling for cakes and other pastries. Not surprisingly, brigadeiros are a popular treat served at children’s birthday parties.

liknes, flickr

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Photos

India: Bollywood

The final scene of the movie Slumdog Millionaire made this Indian dance style popular in the US. But it’s just a regular day in the life of Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit-Nene. She’s seen here performing at the International Indian Film Academy Awards.9601280

The final scene of the movie Slumdog Millionaire made this Indian dance style popular in the US. But it’s just a regular day in the life of Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit-Nene. She’s seen here performing at the International Indian Film Academy Awards.

Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty Images

Brazil: Samba

Brazil: Samba

If you can’t move your hips, then you might want to watch and learn how to samba from the pros. Thousands of participants dance to the rhythm of Carnival beats during the Mangueira samba school’s colorful parade at the Sambodrome in Rio de Janeiro.9601280

If you can’t move your hips, then you might want to watch and learn how to samba from the pros. Thousands of participants dance to the rhythm of Carnival beats during the Mangueira samba school’s colorful parade at the Sambodrome in Rio de Janeiro.

PYMCA/Univeral Images Group/Getty Images

China: Dragon Dance

China: Dragon Dance

Ring in the new year right — the Chinese way! In Beijing, Chinese artists perform a dragon dance at a local amusement park during celebrations for the Lunar New Year.9601280

Ring in the new year right — the Chinese way! In Beijing, Chinese artists perform a dragon dance at a local amusement park during celebrations for the Lunar New Year.

Kevin Frayer/Getty Images

Cuba: Salsa

Cuba: Salsa

It’s the perfect time to brush up on your salsa dancing now that Cuba is becoming a hot travel destination.9601280

It’s the perfect time to brush up on your salsa dancing now that Cuba is becoming a hot travel destination.

Emily Riddell/Lonely Planet Images/Getty Images

Russia: Ballet

Russia: Ballet

These Russian ballet dancers practice in a studio in St. Petersburg, Russia. Ballet developed as popular courtly entertainment during the Italian Renaissance and then as a world-renowned fine art in 20th-century Russia and America.9601280

These Russian ballet dancers practice in a studio in St. Petersburg, Russia. Ballet developed as popular courtly entertainment during the Italian Renaissance and then as a world-renowned fine art in 20th-century Russia and America.

Ken Scicluna/AWL Images/Getty Images

Switzerland: Traditional Folk Dance

Switzerland: Traditional Folk Dance

Sometimes it’s OK to keep it traditional, as this couple does at the Ballenberg, an open-air museum in Brienz, Switzerland, that gives insight into the history of the country’s farming culture.9601280

Sometimes it’s OK to keep it traditional, as this couple does at the Ballenberg, an open-air museum in Brienz, Switzerland, that gives insight into the history of the country’s farming culture.

Switzerland Tourism

Argentina: Tango

Argentina: Tango

Tango is a sensual partner dance that originated in Argentina. It is now performed as part of ballroom dance competitions around the world, but this couple is keeping it local on a street in Buenos Aires’ La Boca neighborhood.9601280

Tango is a sensual partner dance that originated in Argentina. It is now performed as part of ballroom dance competitions around the world, but this couple is keeping it local on a street in Buenos Aires’ La Boca neighborhood.

Markus Matzel/Ullstein Bild/Getty Images

Japanese: Kabuki

Japanese: Kabuki

Kabuki, a classical Japanese dance drama, originated in Kyoto more than 400 years ago. In this photo, villagers perform Kabuki for farmers in Hinoemata, Japan, where residents have been performing the art for 200 years.9601280

Kabuki, a classical Japanese dance drama, originated in Kyoto more than 400 years ago. In this photo, villagers perform Kabuki for farmers in Hinoemata, Japan, where residents have been performing the art for 200 years.

Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images

Austria: Viennese Waltz

Austria: Viennese Waltz

The Viennese waltz was actually the first form of the waltz, a smooth ballroom and folk dance. It was originally the peasants’ dance but eventually gained acceptance in European high society. In this photo, young couples waltz at the traditional Opera Ball in Vienna.9601280

The Viennese waltz was actually the first form of the waltz, a smooth ballroom and folk dance. It was originally the peasants’ dance but eventually gained acceptance in European high society. In this photo, young couples waltz at the traditional Opera Ball in Vienna.

Dieter Nagl/AFP/Getty Images

Paraguay: Traditional Dance

Paraguay: Traditional Dance

Dance is another way to explore and gain some insight into the indigenous customs and cultures of a destination. Here, Maka natives dance during festivities marking American Indigenous People Day in Mariano Roque Alonso, a city 12 miles north of Asuncion, Paraguay.9601280

Dance is another way to explore and gain some insight into the indigenous customs and cultures of a destination. Here, Maka natives dance during festivities marking American Indigenous People Day in Mariano Roque Alonso, a city 12 miles north of Asuncion, Paraguay.

Norberto Durate/AFP/Getty Images

United States: Contemporary Dance

United States: Contemporary Dance

Contemporary dance is often thought to be related to ballet and other concert dance styles, but it actually borrows from classical, modern and jazz dance. This dance form is characterized by unpredictable changes in rhythm, speed and direction.9601280

Contemporary dance is often thought to be related to ballet and other concert dance styles, but it actually borrows from classical, modern and jazz dance. This dance form is characterized by unpredictable changes in rhythm, speed and direction.

Vasilina Popova/Stone/Getty Images

Middle East: Belly Dance

Middle East: Belly Dance

The term “belly dance” comes from the French phrase dance du ventre, which translates as “dance of the stomach,” but the moves themselves arose from various dancing styles performed in the Middle East and North Africa.9601280

The term “belly dance” comes from the French phrase dance du ventre, which translates as “dance of the stomach,” but the moves themselves arose from various dancing styles performed in the Middle East and North Africa.

Karen Liagan/Moment/Getty Images

New York City: Broadway

New York City: Broadway

It’s all about jazz hands in New York, where Broadway musicals require performers to learn various dance styles. And even the world-renowned Rockettes have to practice to make sure their precise choreography is executed correctly for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.9601280

It’s all about jazz hands in New York, where Broadway musicals require performers to learn various dance styles. And even the world-renowned Rockettes have to practice to make sure their precise choreography is executed correctly for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

See a Neighborhood Monument

Monumento a Castelo Branco in Parque Moinhos de Vento juts out of its grassy surroundings, a hard and angular reminder of Brazil’s first military dictator, Castelo Branco. The monument’s artist presents his vision of 3 soldiers standing together, just a little off-balance. This controversial historical marker is offset by well-shaded park benches, often occupied by Porto Alegre’s beautiful people sipping their beloved chimarrão, a mate herb tea.9601280

Monumento a Castelo Branco in Parque Moinhos de Vento juts out of its grassy surroundings, a hard and angular reminder of Brazil’s first military dictator, Castelo Branco. The monument’s artist presents his vision of 3 soldiers standing together, just a little off-balance. This controversial historical marker is offset by well-shaded park benches, often occupied by Porto Alegre’s beautiful people sipping their beloved chimarrão, a mate herb tea.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Go Where Windmills Stood

Go Where Windmills Stood

Moinhos de Vento means windmill in Portuguese, a nod to this neighborhood’s 19th- century wheat grinding past. Trendy boutiques, hotels and restaurants have since replaced its windmills. This replica of an Azorean windmill in Parque Moinhos de Vento doubles as a children’s library and a picturesque backdrop for lake turtles and ducks.9601280

Moinhos de Vento means windmill in Portuguese, a nod to this neighborhood’s 19th- century wheat grinding past. Trendy boutiques, hotels and restaurants have since replaced its windmills. This replica of an Azorean windmill in Parque Moinhos de Vento doubles as a children’s library and a picturesque backdrop for lake turtles and ducks.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Step Inside a Local Landmark

Step Inside a Local Landmark

Usina do Gasômetro is an old coral-colored electrical power plant, even though its name suggests that it was an old gas plant. Its history is chronicled inside, which has also become an exhibition space for local artists and musicians. Venture to the fourth floor for some of the best views of Porto Alegre’s sunsets over Lake Guaíba.9601280

Usina do Gasômetro is an old coral-colored electrical power plant, even though its name suggests that it was an old gas plant. Its history is chronicled inside, which has also become an exhibition space for local artists and musicians. Venture to the fourth floor for some of the best views of Porto Alegre’s sunsets over Lake Guaíba.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Stroll Along Lake Guaíba

Stroll Along Lake Guaíba

Porto-Alegreses like to brag about the sunsets over Lake Guaíba. They are said to be especially spectacular in winter and few miss the show. Some tourists take it in by boat, while locals gather on a grassy expanse with churros, those sugary fried dough sticks, as a snack.9601280

Porto-Alegreses like to brag about the sunsets over Lake Guaíba. They are said to be especially spectacular in winter and few miss the show. Some tourists take it in by boat, while locals gather on a grassy expanse with churros, those sugary fried dough sticks, as a snack.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Taste a Traditional Portuguese Dish

Taste a Traditional Portuguese Dish

The Portuguese brought their taste for salted cod, known as bacalhau, with them to Brazil. You can sample some of the best in Porto Alegre at Gambrinus, a restaurant and pub dating back to 1889 inside the old Mercado Público Central.9601280

The Portuguese brought their taste for salted cod, known as bacalhau, with them to Brazil. You can sample some of the best in Porto Alegre at Gambrinus, a restaurant and pub dating back to 1889 inside the old Mercado Público Central.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Shop Local in the Public Market

Shop Local in the Public Market

Outside the pastel yellow walls of Mercado Público, local merchants hawk their handicrafts from jewelry to paintings, while inside is a vibrant visual feast of tropical fruits and fresh meats on display. Pick up some mate leaves to make your own chimarrao at home.9601280

Outside the pastel yellow walls of Mercado Público, local merchants hawk their handicrafts from jewelry to paintings, while inside is a vibrant visual feast of tropical fruits and fresh meats on display. Pick up some mate leaves to make your own chimarrao at home.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

See the City from Lake Guaíba

See the City from Lake Guaíba

From a cruise on Lake Guaíba, the Porto Alegre skyline shows off its present and past with its more modern facades protecting its older ornate ones in the city center, dating back to the 18th century.9601280

From a cruise on Lake Guaíba, the Porto Alegre skyline shows off its present and past with its more modern facades protecting its older ornate ones in the city center, dating back to the 18th century.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Board the White Swan

Board the White Swan

Cisne Branco means white swan in Portuguese, and this small cruise ship glides along Rio Guaíba where it expands into a lake and intersects with Rio Jacquí, while playing the music of the city and broadcasting facts about Porto Alegre’s great past.9601280

Cisne Branco means white swan in Portuguese, and this small cruise ship glides along Rio Guaíba where it expands into a lake and intersects with Rio Jacquí, while playing the music of the city and broadcasting facts about Porto Alegre’s great past.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

See a Giant

See a Giant

If you are going to Porto Alegre for the 2014 World Cup, a visit to the “Giant of the Hills” is inevitable. Estadio Beria-Rio got its nickname from reverential Porto Alegre futbol fans for its perch on one of the city’s highest points and its legend will grow as host of epic matchups like Australia vs. The Netherlands and Nigeria vs. Argentina.9601280

If you are going to Porto Alegre for the 2014 World Cup, a visit to the “Giant of the Hills” is inevitable. Estadio Beria-Rio got its nickname from reverential Porto Alegre futbol fans for its perch on one of the city’s highest points and its legend will grow as host of epic matchups like Australia vs. The Netherlands and Nigeria vs. Argentina.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Get a Taste of Northern Brazil

Get a Taste of Northern Brazil

While Porto-Alegreses are proud of their churrascos, meat-heavy barbecues, they don’t mind a taste of northern cuisine on occasion. Iaiá Bistro serves acarajé, the fried shrimp and black-eyed pea nuggets you’d find in Salvador do Bahia.9601280

While Porto-Alegreses are proud of their churrascos, meat-heavy barbecues, they don’t mind a taste of northern cuisine on occasion. Iaiá Bistro serves acarajé, the fried shrimp and black-eyed pea nuggets you’d find in Salvador do Bahia.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Sleep in a Posh Boutique Hotel

Sleep in a Posh Boutique Hotel

Blocks away from the trendy shops and cafes of Rue Padre Chagas in Moinhos de Ventos, you can rest your head at Hotel Laghetto Viverone, a restored 19th- century home outfitted with a rooftop pool.9601280

Blocks away from the trendy shops and cafes of Rue Padre Chagas in Moinhos de Ventos, you can rest your head at Hotel Laghetto Viverone, a restored 19th- century home outfitted with a rooftop pool.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Go Into the Heart of the Old City

Go Into the Heart of the Old City

A monument to Rio Grande do Sul politics and a model politician Julio de Castilhos stands at the center of Praça da Matriz in the heart of Porto Alegre’s historic district. Bounded by state and city government buildings, it’s a reminder of gaucho – Brazilian cowboy – independence.9601280

A monument to Rio Grande do Sul politics and a model politician Julio de Castilhos stands at the center of Praça da Matriz in the heart of Porto Alegre’s historic district. Bounded by state and city government buildings, it’s a reminder of gaucho – Brazilian cowboy – independence.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

People Watch in a Historic Square

People Watch in a Historic Square

Besides being at the center of politics and government in Porto Alegre, Praça da Matriz attracts locals of all types walking their dogs, reading the paper, even practicing scenes for a play at the nearby Theatro São Pedro.9601280

Besides being at the center of politics and government in Porto Alegre, Praça da Matriz attracts locals of all types walking their dogs, reading the paper, even practicing scenes for a play at the nearby Theatro São Pedro.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

See Porto Alegre’s Spiritual Center

See Porto Alegre’s Spiritual Center

The building of Catedral Metropolitana on Porto Alegre’s historic Praça da Matriz is inextricably linked to the city’s founding. The ornate Italian Renaissance columns and dome are reminders of the city’s Jesuit missionary beginnings.9601280

The building of Catedral Metropolitana on Porto Alegre’s historic Praça da Matriz is inextricably linked to the city’s founding. The ornate Italian Renaissance columns and dome are reminders of the city’s Jesuit missionary beginnings.

Visit an Artisanal Cachaça Distillery

The ingredient that gives a caipirinha, Brazil’s national drink, its kick, is cachaca, and you can get a closer look at how the alcoholic beverage is made at Flor do Vale a small distillery nestled in a bucolic valley just outside Canela in Rio Grande do Sul. From sugar cane milling to fermentation, explore the distillation process, then sample the final product in tastings or in the restaurant where cachaça makes its way into some of the dishes.9601280

The ingredient that gives a caipirinha, Brazil’s national drink, its kick, is cachaca, and you can get a closer look at how the alcoholic beverage is made at Flor do Vale a small distillery nestled in a bucolic valley just outside Canela in Rio Grande do Sul. From sugar cane milling to fermentation, explore the distillation process, then sample the final product in tastings or in the restaurant where cachaça makes its way into some of the dishes.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Go for Italian Cuisine

Go for Italian Cuisine

The people of Rio Grande do Sul are proud of their Italian heritage and there are plenty of places to indulge in Italy’s greatest export, its food. At Cantina di Capo in Gramado, order family style and enjoy the cozy, family-friendly feel of the place. The chef is likely to stop by your table to say hello.9601280

The people of Rio Grande do Sul are proud of their Italian heritage and there are plenty of places to indulge in Italy’s greatest export, its food. At Cantina di Capo in Gramado, order family style and enjoy the cozy, family-friendly feel of the place. The chef is likely to stop by your table to say hello.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Travel the Romantic Route

Travel the Romantic Route

The collection of highways between Porto Alegre and the scenic towns of Gramado and Canela is called the Romantic Route because of the lush landscapes that unfurl along the way and the bountiful blue hydrangea bushes decorating the 2-lane thoroughfares.9601280

The collection of highways between Porto Alegre and the scenic towns of Gramado and Canela is called the Romantic Route because of the lush landscapes that unfurl along the way and the bountiful blue hydrangea bushes decorating the 2-lane thoroughfares.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Tap Into Your Adventureous Side

Tap Into Your Adventureous Side

Rio Grande do Sul’s highland, known as the Serra Gaúcha, is home to vast national parks featuring craggy canyons, tree-covered mountains and surprising waterfalls. Cambará do Sul is a great starting point for adventure with off-road tours and treks.9601280

Rio Grande do Sul’s highland, known as the Serra Gaúcha, is home to vast national parks featuring craggy canyons, tree-covered mountains and surprising waterfalls. Cambará do Sul is a great starting point for adventure with off-road tours and treks.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Eat Like an Early Italian Settler

Eat Like an Early Italian Settler

Start your meal at Galeteria O Casarão in Cambará do Sul with a shot of cachaça, because what meal doesn’t taste great with cachaça? The rustic eatery serves early Italian immigrant staples from the region like grilled chicken, trout and fried polenta cakes topped with grilled mozzarella.9601280

Start your meal at Galeteria O Casarão in Cambará do Sul with a shot of cachaça, because what meal doesn’t taste great with cachaça? The rustic eatery serves early Italian immigrant staples from the region like grilled chicken, trout and fried polenta cakes topped with grilled mozzarella.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

See Cambara do Sul by 4x4

See Cambara do Sul by 4x4

The best way to take in the parks and canyons of Cambará do Sul is by 4x4 and with a guide. The roads turn dusty and rugged on the way to the region’s stunning natural landmarks where there is little infrastructure, especially at Parque Nacional da Serra Geral.9601280

The best way to take in the parks and canyons of Cambará do Sul is by 4x4 and with a guide. The roads turn dusty and rugged on the way to the region’s stunning natural landmarks where there is little infrastructure, especially at Parque Nacional da Serra Geral.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Visit Parque Nacional da Serra Geral

Visit Parque Nacional da Serra Geral

After a jostling ride past flat pastures punctuated by the occasional clump of cows and undulating mountains in the distance, stop to explore unkempt grassy trails that lead right to the precipice of one of Brazil’s most impressive canyons, Fortaleza.9601280

After a jostling ride past flat pastures punctuated by the occasional clump of cows and undulating mountains in the distance, stop to explore unkempt grassy trails that lead right to the precipice of one of Brazil’s most impressive canyons, Fortaleza.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Peer into Fortaleza Canyon

Peer into Fortaleza Canyon

It’s surprising how verdant Fortaleza Canyon is, vastly different from typical rocky, earth-gouged canyons. You can sit right at its edge and marvel at its nearly 3,000-foot depths or ascend its highest point at nearby Monte Negro Peak for more panoramic views.9601280

It’s surprising how verdant Fortaleza Canyon is, vastly different from typical rocky, earth-gouged canyons. You can sit right at its edge and marvel at its nearly 3,000-foot depths or ascend its highest point at nearby Monte Negro Peak for more panoramic views.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Admire the Native Trees

Admire the Native Trees

Nothing could look any different from a Christmas pine tree than this region’s araucaria tree, but they are both in the pine tree family. The araucaria’s treetops spread out like an ornamental fan with spindly fringe.9601280

Nothing could look any different from a Christmas pine tree than this region’s araucaria tree, but they are both in the pine tree family. The araucaria’s treetops spread out like an ornamental fan with spindly fringe.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Sleep in a Rustic Pousada

Sleep in a Rustic Pousada

A pousada is Brazil’s answer to the bed-and-breakfast and they line Romantic Route as you might expect. But the Parador Casa da Montanha is unique in its mix of roughing it and cozy hospitality. Sleep in on a well-cushioned and quilted bed in a thermal tent (minus shower) with unparalleled views of the Serra Gaúcha.9601280

A pousada is Brazil’s answer to the bed-and-breakfast and they line Romantic Route as you might expect. But the Parador Casa da Montanha is unique in its mix of roughing it and cozy hospitality. Sleep in on a well-cushioned and quilted bed in a thermal tent (minus shower) with unparalleled views of the Serra Gaúcha.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Experience the Spirit of Gramado

Experience the Spirit of Gramado

São Pedro Church sits at the epicenter of Gramado at the intersection of Avenida Borges Medeiros and Avenida das Hortênsias. During the holidays, Gramado’s busiest season, tourists stop in to say a prayer and see its Nativity scene.9601280

São Pedro Church sits at the epicenter of Gramado at the intersection of Avenida Borges Medeiros and Avenida das Hortênsias. During the holidays, Gramado’s busiest season, tourists stop in to say a prayer and see its Nativity scene.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Stroll Along Avenida Borges Medeiros in Gramado

Stroll Along Avenida Borges Medeiros in Gramado

Gramado is the third most popular destination in Brazil, an attraction for Brazilians looking to experience cooler temperatures and sip Gramado’s famous hot chocolate. At Christmas, Avenida Borges Medeiros is a glow with holiday lights and displays.9601280

Gramado is the third most popular destination in Brazil, an attraction for Brazilians looking to experience cooler temperatures and sip Gramado’s famous hot chocolate. At Christmas, Avenida Borges Medeiros is a glow with holiday lights and displays.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Try the Fondue

Try the Fondue

Brazilians travel to Gramado for the fondue as much as the hot chocolate. Restaurants like St. Hubertus serve bubbling pots of cheese with bread and potatoes for dipping, along with slivers of meat for table grilling and dunking in a selection of sauces.9601280

Brazilians travel to Gramado for the fondue as much as the hot chocolate. Restaurants like St. Hubertus serve bubbling pots of cheese with bread and potatoes for dipping, along with slivers of meat for table grilling and dunking in a selection of sauces.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Stay in the Heart of Gramado

Stay in the Heart of Gramado

After a day of nearby shopping and sightseeing, a doorman welcomes you back to Hotel Serra Azul, where you can enjoy the roaring fire in the fireplace room or simply retire to your spacious apartment-sized suite with balcony in this traditional, yet cozy hotel.9601280

After a day of nearby shopping and sightseeing, a doorman welcomes you back to Hotel Serra Azul, where you can enjoy the roaring fire in the fireplace room or simply retire to your spacious apartment-sized suite with balcony in this traditional, yet cozy hotel.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Go to Café Colonial

Go to Café Colonial

Eating is a big part of the experience of visiting Gramado and its sister city, Canela, and there is no better place to eat big than at Bela Vista Café Colonial, where plate after plate of grilled meats, fried cheeses, polenta and desserts are deposited at your table until you say, “uncle.”9601280

Eating is a big part of the experience of visiting Gramado and its sister city, Canela, and there is no better place to eat big than at Bela Vista Café Colonial, where plate after plate of grilled meats, fried cheeses, polenta and desserts are deposited at your table until you say, “uncle.”

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

See a Roadside Attraction Operated by Steam

See a Roadside Attraction Operated by Steam

Mundo a Vapor, the World of Steam, in Canela, replicates a still-steaming 1895 train wreck in Montparnasse, France, at its entrance, and powers windmills, clocks and a paper-making machine by steam inside.9601280

Mundo a Vapor, the World of Steam, in Canela, replicates a still-steaming 1895 train wreck in Montparnasse, France, at its entrance, and powers windmills, clocks and a paper-making machine by steam inside.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Snap a Photo of Stone Cathedral

Snap a Photo of Stone Cathedral

This iconic landmark in Canela is pretty picturesque from all angles and mimics the Gothic style of cathedrals in Europe. After taking a photo outside Stone Cathedral step inside to take a photo with a wax figure of Pope Francis.9601280

This iconic landmark in Canela is pretty picturesque from all angles and mimics the Gothic style of cathedrals in Europe. After taking a photo outside Stone Cathedral step inside to take a photo with a wax figure of Pope Francis.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Walk Alongside a Waterfall

Walk Alongside a Waterfall

The frothy waterfall at Parque Estadual do Caracol is another popular natural landmark in Rio Grande do Sul. Take in the powerful cascade from an observation deck, 88-foot-tall observatory or follow the 800 steps down to its base for a closer look.9601280

The frothy waterfall at Parque Estadual do Caracol is another popular natural landmark in Rio Grande do Sul. Take in the powerful cascade from an observation deck, 88-foot-tall observatory or follow the 800 steps down to its base for a closer look.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Eat Churrasco

Eat Churrasco

Eating grilled meat, known as churrasco and served at churrascurrias, is a local pastime in Rio Grande do Sul, so why not join in? The Garfo & Bombacha Churrascurria provides a festive atmosphere for consuming must-try meats: Picanha, a beef cut from the top of the cow’s backside, and coracao de galinha, chicken heart.9601280

Eating grilled meat, known as churrasco and served at churrascurrias, is a local pastime in Rio Grande do Sul, so why not join in? The Garfo & Bombacha Churrascurria provides a festive atmosphere for consuming must-try meats: Picanha, a beef cut from the top of the cow’s backside, and coracao de galinha, chicken heart.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Explore German Immigrant Life

Explore German Immigrant Life

The people of Gramado and Canela are as proud of their German ancestry as their Italian ancestry and it is on display at Castelinho Caracol, the 1913 home of the Franzen family, featuring period furniture, clothes and a kitchen serving homemade apple strudel.9601280

The people of Gramado and Canela are as proud of their German ancestry as their Italian ancestry and it is on display at Castelinho Caracol, the 1913 home of the Franzen family, featuring period furniture, clothes and a kitchen serving homemade apple strudel.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Visit a Winery

Visit a Winery

Besides cuisine, Italian immigrants brought their love of wine to Brazil and it is growing on the vine in Gramado and Canela. A descendant of an Italian winemaker carries on the tradition at Ravanello in Gramado, while an Italian family has taken over Jolimont, a winery started by a French family in Canela.9601280

Besides cuisine, Italian immigrants brought their love of wine to Brazil and it is growing on the vine in Gramado and Canela. A descendant of an Italian winemaker carries on the tradition at Ravanello in Gramado, while an Italian family has taken over Jolimont, a winery started by a French family in Canela.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

Marvel at Miniatures

Marvel at Miniatures

Mini Mundo in Gramado is a major attraction for kids and adults alike in Brazil. In this mini-world, buildings like the Neuschwanstein Castle in Austria, the model for the castle in Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty,” are 24 times smaller than in real life.9601280

Mini Mundo in Gramado is a major attraction for kids and adults alike in Brazil. In this mini-world, buildings like the Neuschwanstein Castle in Austria, the model for the castle in Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty,” are 24 times smaller than in real life.

Andre Maceira - Photo Courtesy of Embratur

See Traditional Folk Dances

See Traditional Folk Dances

A good gaucho churrasco always ends in music and dance. Skirt spinning and fire-wielding performances are guaranteed to delight after a belt-busting meal at Garfo & Bombacha Churrascaria in Canela.9601280

A good gaucho churrasco always ends in music and dance. Skirt spinning and fire-wielding performances are guaranteed to delight after a belt-busting meal at Garfo & Bombacha Churrascaria in Canela.